Gas Pipeline Integrity Management Adds Complexity, Costs To Operations

摘要

The most significant energy pipeline safety legislation in more than three decades will significantly increase the complexity and cost of operating pipelines in populated regions, even in rural areas where people congregate sporadically or occasionally. The Pipeline Safety Improvement Act of 2002 passed by Congress in November and signed by President Bush a month later, is the latest step to ensure the safety and integrity of the nation's pipeline networks. The law endorses the concepts of operator qualification and pipeline integrity management. It also directs the Office of Pipeline Safety to develop rules requiring pipeline operators to prepare and adopt specific plans to identify and protect segments where pipeline failures would threaten people and property'. Liquids pipeline operators are currently operating under similar integrity regulations. An integrity rule for oil pipelines took effect Dec. 1, 2000.